Investigation Narrowing in on NYC Train Derailment Cause

Published 12/03 2013 10:07AM

Updated 12/03 2013 10:08AM

(NBC News) The Metro-North commuter train that derailed in the Bronx, killing four people and injuring dozens, was traveling at a "harrowing" 82 mph as it hit a curve where the limit was 30 mph, officials said Monday.

The throttle was engaged until six seconds before the locomotive came to a stop on its side, and the brakes were fully applied only five seconds before, National Transportation Safety Board member Earl Weener said.

That is "very late in the game," Weener said.

He said it was unclear if the engineer, a 20-year veteran, hit the brakes and they failed, or if he simply tried to slow down or stop too late.